A meeting of virtuosi

    Date
    1827
    Creator
    Allen Robert Branston (1778 - 1827, British) , Printmaker
    Object type
    Material
    Technique
    Dimensions
    height (print): 68mm
    width (print): 92mm
    Subject
    Description
    Humorous reconstruction of a seventeenth century meeting of the Royal Society, inspired by Samuel Butler’s satirical poem, ‘The elephant in the moon’ (written c.1670).

    The interior shows a group of natural philosophers gathered around a covered table, in the process of observing the Moon (visible through a window) using a telescope being held by a young footman. A mouse can be seen sitting in the telescope tube. Above, a stuffed crocodile hangs from the ceiling on suspended chandelier with candles.

    Vignette from the title page of The genuine poetical remains of Samuel Butler. With notes by Robert Thyer (London, Joseph Booker, 1827).

    Inscribed: ‘Branston’ within the design.

    Samuel Butler (bap.1613, d.1680) British poet, author of Hudibras (1663-).

    Robert Thyer (bap.1709, d.1781) British librarian and literary editor, including of Butler’s works.
    Associated place
    Credit
    ©The Royal Society
    Image number
    RS.13640
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